nitrittéammóniává

Ammonium nitrite is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NH4NO2. It is the ammonium salt of nitrous acid. Ammonium nitrite is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is an unstable compound and decomposes readily, especially when heated, producing nitrogen gas and water. This decomposition can be vigorous and potentially explosive.

The compound is formed by the reaction of ammonia with nitrous acid, or by the reaction of ammonium carbonate with sodium nitrite. Due to its instability, ammonium nitrite is not commonly manufactured or stored for commercial purposes. It is primarily encountered as an intermediate in certain chemical reactions.

In the environment, ammonium nitrite can form from the oxidation of ammonia in soils and waters, although it is usually rapidly converted to other nitrogen compounds. Its presence in significant concentrations is generally transient. The decomposition products, nitrogen gas and water, are environmentally benign. However, the instability of ammonium nitrite poses a safety hazard due to its potential for rapid decomposition. Care must be taken when handling or synthesizing it.